MADD urging everyone in Windsor-Essex to make a commitment to sober driving

Mothers Against Drunk Driving Windsor and Essex County is asking everyone to plan ahead to get home safely if they're out drinking this coming holiday season.

MADD launched its annual Project Red Ribbon campaign Wednesday to promote sober driving and to raise awareness about the risks of impaired driving.

Until Jan. 2, 2024, MADD asks people across the region to display a red ribbon or red ribbon car decal on their vehicles, key chains, purses, briefcases and backpacks. 

Chaouki Hamka, Community Leader for MADD Windsor and Essex County, says the red ribbon reinforces the message.

"By displaying the Red Ribbon you are making a personal commitment to drive sober. A red ribbon is also used to pay tribute to thousands of Canadians who have lost their loved ones or injured as a result of impaired driving," he says.

Hamka says while great strides have been made to reducing impaired driving, it remains a problem and continued awareness is vital.

"We all have a very important role to play in keeping our roads safe this holiday season," he says.

Chaouki Hamka, Community Leader for MADD Windsor and Essex County, speaks during the launch of Project Red Ribbon outside the OPP Tecumseh Detachment in Tecumseh. Nov. 1, 2023. (Photo: Rusty Thomson)

Hamka says impaired driving is never worth the risk to you, your passengers or the people sharing the road with you.

"If you're consuming alcohol, cannabis or other drugs, please leave the driving to someone sober," he says. "Get an Uber, a taxi, take public transportation or arrange a designated driver. If you see a driver you suspect is impaired, call 911 and report it to police."

Red ribbons and car decals are available from MADD Windsor & Essex County at maddwin@yahoo.ca or 519-791-9623 and the MADD Canada web site at madd.ca. 

Ribbons and decals also available at all OPP detachments and local Police services headquarters in Windsor-Essex.